Being a Fellow is a jolly good recognition of high IC standards

The title is recognition of reaching the highest level of excellence and achievement in internal communication. It opens up opportunities to share and collaborate with other IoIC members – and can open doors in your career.

“It’s a public, highly respected quality mark,” says IoIC president Suzanne Peck, “and is also becoming a prerequisite for many employers seeking to recruit for senior IC roles.”

Rachel Miller, director of All Things IC, says she is proud to be an IoIC Fellow. “It’s more than just a title,” she says. “It’s a constant reminder of the need to continuously improve and help other practitioners.

“I believe the higher the standards in internal communication are, the more successful our workplaces and employees will be. So anything that helps internal communication practitioners celebrate success and be encouraged to be even better gets my full support.

“My commitment to professional development means clients who hire me know they’ll benefit from my membership and Fellowship. That’s what being a Fellow means to me – finding ways to help other practitioners boost their knowledge and grow in confidence, so they can also reach the same level and pass it on.”

Declan Lyons, managing director of BCT Communications, has been an IoIC Fellow for almost 14 years and says it is a strong validation of your credentials.

“I have my own degrees, an MBA and a qualification in journalism, but a Fellowship in IoIC is a different thing altogether,” he reflects. “It shows people who don’t know a great deal about comms that you have been recognised by a bona fide communications organisation.”

It can be a key selling point in your work and career, he adds. “If you are carrying out any work in the EU, for example, it’s seen almost as another qualification. On communications projects I’ve pitched for, I’ve used it as a reference. It helps to secure a position, as it makes you stand out. I feel it is a very useful additional string to my bow.”

As well as impressing potential employers or clients, it is beneficial to be able to call upon other Fellows to share ideas and insight.

“Over the years, I have met a number of other IoIC Fellows,” says Declan. “There is a great amount of expertise within that body of people. At any stage in your comms career, you’re looking for people who can offer that high level opinion and expertise.”

Rachel was overwhelmed by the feedback from contacts and clients when her Fellowship announcement was made. “It’s always valuable to have your efforts reviewed by peers. Being part of an elite group of expert internal communicators is incredibly humbling.

“If you meet the eligibility criteria, I encourage you to apply for a Fellowship. It’s a hallmark I’m proud to have against my name.”

To be considered for Fellowship you need at least 10 years of IC sector experience and have demonstrated a strong commitment to your personal development. For more details and an application form, visit the IoIC’s Fellowship page.